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1.
AAPS PharmSciTech ; 25(5): 106, 2024 May 09.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38724834

The primary factor underlying the virulence of Candida albicans is its capacity to form biofilms, which in turn leads to recurrent complications. Over-the-counter antifungal treatments have proven ineffective in eliminating fungal biofilms and the inflammatory cytokines produced during fungal infections. Chitosan nanoparticles offer broad and versatile therapeutic potential as both antifungal agents and carriers for antifungal drugs to combat biofilm-associated Candida infections. In our study, we endeavoured to develop chitosan nanoparticles utilising chitosan and the antifungal crosslinker phytic acid targeting C. albicans. Phytic acid, known for its potent antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, efficiently crosslinks with chitosan. The nanoparticles were synthesised using the ionic gelation technique and subjected to analyses including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential analysis. The synthesised nanoparticles exhibited dimensions with a diameter (Dh) of 103 ± 3.9 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.33, and zeta potential (ZP) of 37 ± 2.5 mV. These nanoparticles demonstrated an antifungal effect with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 140 ± 2.2 µg/mL, maintaining cell viability at approximately 90% of the MIC value and reducing cytokine levels. Additionally, the nanoparticles reduced ergosterol content and exhibited a 62% ± 1.2 reduction in biofilm susceptibility, as supported by colony-forming unit (CFU) and XTT assays-furthermore, treatment with nanoparticles reduced exopolysaccharide production and decreased secretion of aspartyl protease by C. albicans. Our findings suggest that the synthesised nanoparticles effectively combat Candida albicans infections. In vivo studies conducted on a mouse model of vaginal candidiasis confirmed the efficacy of the nanoparticles in combating fungal infections in vivo.


Antifungal Agents , Biofilms , Candida albicans , Chitosan , Microbial Sensitivity Tests , Nanoparticles , Phytic Acid , Chitosan/chemistry , Biofilms/drug effects , Nanoparticles/chemistry , Antifungal Agents/pharmacology , Antifungal Agents/administration & dosage , Animals , Candida albicans/drug effects , Mice , Microbial Sensitivity Tests/methods , Phytic Acid/pharmacology , Phytic Acid/administration & dosage , Phytic Acid/chemistry , Female , Candidiasis/drug therapy , Particle Size , Drug Carriers/chemistry , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Cytokines/metabolism
2.
Sci Rep ; 14(1): 10825, 2024 05 11.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38734808

This study developed a kind of PEG-crosslinked O-carboxymethyl chitosan (O-CMC-PEG) with various PEG content for food packaging. The crosslinking agent of isocyanate-terminated PEG was firstly synthesized by a simple condensation reaction between PEG and excess diisocyanate, then the crosslink between O-carboxymethyl chitosan (O-CMC) and crosslinking agent occurred under mild conditions to produce O-CMC-PEG with a crosslinked structure linked by urea bonds. FT-IR and 1H NMR techniques were utilized to confirm the chemical structures of the crosslinking agent and O-CMC-PEGs. Extensive research was conducted to investigate the impact of the PEG content (or crosslinking degree) on the physicochemical characteristics of the casted O-CMC-PEG films. The results illuminated that crosslinking and components compatibility could improve their tensile features and water vapor barrier performance, while high PEG content played the inverse effects due to the microphase separation between PEG and O-CMC segments. The in vitro degradation rate and water sensitivity primarily depended on the crosslinking degree in comparison with the PEG content. Furthermore, caused by the remaining -NH2 groups of O-CMC, the films demonstrated antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. When the PEG content was 6% (medium crosslinking degree), the prepared O-CMC-PEG-6% film possessed optimal tensile features, high water resistance, appropriate degradation rate, low water vapor transmission rate and fine broad-spectrum antibacterial capacity, manifesting a great potential for application in food packaging to extend the shelf life.


Anti-Bacterial Agents , Chitosan , Escherichia coli , Food Packaging , Polyethylene Glycols , Chitosan/chemistry , Chitosan/analogs & derivatives , Chitosan/pharmacology , Food Packaging/methods , Anti-Bacterial Agents/chemistry , Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology , Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry , Escherichia coli/drug effects , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared , Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects , Microbial Sensitivity Tests , Tensile Strength
3.
Food Res Int ; 187: 114329, 2024 Jul.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38763632

The utilization of non-animal-derived materials to imitate cartilage is critical for the advancement of plant-based simulated meat. In this study, gellan gum (GG), konjac glucomannan (KGM), and wheat fiber (WF) were used to construct hydrogel, and the mechanical strength, water properties, and microstructure were regulated by constructing Ca2+ cross-links and moisture control. The hardness, chewiness, resilience, shear force, and shear energy of the Ca2+ cross-linked samples were significantly improved. Extrusion dehydration further changes the related mechanical properties of the hydrogel and results in a tighter microstructure. The findings suggest that the establishment of Ca2+ cross-links and water regulation are efficacious techniques for modifying the texture of the GG/KGM/WF composite hydrogel. Correlation analysis and sensory evaluation showed that the test indexes and sensory scores of the samples with Ca2+ crosslinking and 80 % moisture content were similar to chicken breast cartilage, and the samples with Ca2+ crosslinking and 70 % moisture content were similar to pig crescent bone. This study presents a framework for designing edible cartilage simulators using polysaccharide hydrogels, with implications for enhancing the resemblance of plant-based meat products to real meat and expanding the range of vegetarian offerings available.


Hydrogels , Mannans , Polysaccharides, Bacterial , Triticum , Polysaccharides, Bacterial/chemistry , Mannans/chemistry , Animals , Hydrogels/chemistry , Triticum/chemistry , Cartilage/chemistry , Water/chemistry , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Chickens , Calcium/analysis , Calcium/chemistry , Dietary Fiber/analysis
4.
Carbohydr Polym ; 338: 122173, 2024 Aug 15.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38763720

The dynamic interplay between cells and their native extracellular matrix (ECM) influences cellular behavior, imposing a challenge in biomaterial design. Dynamic covalent hydrogels are viscoelastic and show self-healing ability, making them a potential scaffold for recapitulating native ECM properties. We aimed to implement kinetically and thermodynamically distinct crosslinkers to prepare self-healing dynamic hydrogels to explore the arising properties and their effects on cellular behavior. To do so, aldehyde-substituted hyaluronic acid (HA) was synthesized to generate imine, hydrazone, and oxime crosslinked dynamic covalent hydrogels. Differences in equilibrium constants of these bonds yielded distinct properties including stiffness, stress relaxation, and self-healing ability. The effects of degree of substitution (DS), polymer concentration, crosslinker to aldehyde ratio, and crosslinker functionality on hydrogel properties were evaluated. The self-healing ability of hydrogels was investigated on samples of the same and different crosslinkers and DS to obtain hydrogels with gradient properties. Subsequently, human dermal fibroblasts were cultured in 2D and 3D to assess the cellular response considering the dynamic properties of the hydrogels. Moreover, assessing cell spreading and morphology on hydrogels having similar modulus but different stress relaxation rates showed the effects of matrix viscoelasticity with higher cell spreading in slower relaxing hydrogels.


Cross-Linking Reagents , Fibroblasts , Hyaluronic Acid , Hydrogels , Schiff Bases , Hyaluronic Acid/chemistry , Hydrogels/chemistry , Hydrogels/pharmacology , Hydrogels/chemical synthesis , Humans , Fibroblasts/drug effects , Fibroblasts/cytology , Schiff Bases/chemistry , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Biocompatible Materials/chemistry , Biocompatible Materials/pharmacology , Extracellular Matrix/chemistry , Extracellular Matrix/drug effects , Cells, Cultured
5.
Carbohydr Polym ; 338: 122205, 2024 Aug 15.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38763727

Developing multifunctional films with antibacterial, antioxidant, and sustained-release properties is a robust strategy for preventing contamination of perishable fruits by foodborne microorganisms. This study engineered a sustained-release biodegradable antibacterial film loaded with EGCG (Pickering emulsion (PE)/α-Cyclodextrin (α-CD)/Konjac glucomannan (KGM)) through multi-strategy cross-linking for fruit preservation. EGCG is stabilized using PE and incorporated into the α-CD/KGM inclusion compound; the unique structure of α-CD enhances EGCG encapsulation, while KGM provides the film toughness and surface adhesion. The composite film's physicochemical properties, antioxidant, bacteriostatic and biodegradability were studied. Results showed that Pickering emulsions with 3 % oil phase exhibited excellent stability. Moreover, α-CD introduction increased the loading and sustained release of EGCG from the film, and its concentration significantly affected the light transmission, thermal stability, mechanical strength, mechanical characteristics and antioxidant capacity of the composite membrane. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the composite film increased significantly with increasing α-CD concentration. Application of the film to tomatoes and strawberries effectively inhibited Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus growth, prolonging the shelf-life of the fruits. Notably, the composite film exhibits superior biodegradability in soil. This EGCG-loaded PE/α-CD/KGM composite film is anticipated to be a multifunctional antimicrobial preservation material with sustained-release properties and biodegradable for perishable food applications.


Anti-Bacterial Agents , Antioxidants , Catechin , Emulsions , Escherichia coli , Fruit , Mannans , alpha-Cyclodextrins , alpha-Cyclodextrins/chemistry , Catechin/analogs & derivatives , Catechin/chemistry , Catechin/pharmacology , Mannans/chemistry , Mannans/pharmacology , Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Bacterial Agents/chemistry , Fruit/chemistry , Emulsions/chemistry , Antioxidants/chemistry , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Escherichia coli/drug effects , Food Preservation/methods , Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects , Food Packaging/methods , Microbial Sensitivity Tests , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Drug Liberation
6.
Carbohydr Polym ; 338: 122148, 2024 Aug 15.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38763731

Alginate-based materials present promising potential for emergency hemostasis due to their excellent properties, such as procoagulant capability, biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and cost-effectiveness. However, the inherent deficiencies in water solubility and mechanical strength pose a threat to hemostatic efficiency. Here, we innovatively developed a macromolecular cross-linked alginate aerogel based on norbornene- and thiol-functionalized alginates through a combined thiol-ene cross-linking/freeze-drying process. The resulting aerogel features an interconnected macroporous structure with remarkable water-uptake capacity (approximately 9000 % in weight ratio), contributing to efficient blood absorption, while the enhanced mechanical strength of the aerogel ensures stability and durability during the hemostatic process. Comprehensive hemostasis-relevant assays demonstrated that the aerogel possessed outstanding coagulation capability, which is attributed to the synergistic impacts on concentrating effect, platelet enrichment, and intrinsic coagulation pathway. Upon application to in vivo uncontrolled hemorrhage models of tail amputation and hepatic injury, the aerogel demonstrated significantly superior performance compared to commercial alginate hemostatic agent, yielding reductions in clotting time and blood loss of up to 80 % and 85 %, respectively. Collectively, our work illustrated that the alginate porous aerogel overcomes the deficiencies of alginate materials while exhibiting exceptional performance in hemorrhage, rendering it an appealing candidate for rapid hemostasis.


Alginates , Gels , Hemostasis , Hemostatics , Alginates/chemistry , Animals , Hemostatics/chemistry , Hemostatics/pharmacology , Hemostasis/drug effects , Gels/chemistry , Porosity , Hemorrhage/drug therapy , Blood Coagulation/drug effects , Mice , Male , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Biocompatible Materials/chemistry , Biocompatible Materials/pharmacology
7.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(9)2024 May 03.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38732231

Regenerative medicine is an interdisciplinary field aiming at restoring pathologically damaged tissues and whole organs by cell transplantation in combination with proper supporting scaffolds. Gelatine-based ones are very attractive due to their biocompatibility, rapid biodegradability, and lack of immunogenicity. Gelatine-based composite hydrogels, containing strengthening agents to improve their modest mechanical properties, have been demonstrated to act as extracellular matrices (ECMs), thus playing a critical role in "organ manufacturing". Inspired by the lysyl oxidase (LO)-mediated process of crosslinking, which occurs in nature to reinforce collagen, we have recently developed a versatile protocol to crosslink gelatine B (Gel B) in the presence or absence of LO, using properly synthesized polystyrene- and polyacrylic-based copolymers containing the amine or aldehyde groups needed for crosslinking reactions. Here, following the developed protocol with slight modifications, we have successfully crosslinked Gel B in different conditions, obtaining eight out of nine compounds in high yield (57-99%). The determined crosslinking degree percentage (CP%) evidenced a high CP% for compounds obtained in presence of LO and using the styrenic amine-containing (CP5/DMAA) and acrylic aldehyde-containing (CPMA/DMAA) copolymers as crosslinking agents. ATR-FTIR analyses confirmed the chemical structure of all compounds, while optical microscopy demonstrated cavernous, crater-like, and labyrinth-like morphologies and cavities with a size in the range 15-261 µm. An apparent density in the range 0.10-0.45 g/cm3 confirmed the aerogel-like structure of most samples. Although the best biodegradation profile was observed for the sample obtained using 10% CP5/DMAA (M3), high swelling and absorption properties, high porosity, and good biodegradation profiles were also observed for samples obtained using the 5-10% CP5/DMAA (M4, 5, 6) and 20% CPMA/DMAA (M9) copolymers. Collectively, in this work of synthesis and physicochemical characterization, new aerogel-like composites have been developed and, based on their characteristics, which fit well within the requirements for TE, five candidates (M3, M4, M5, M6, and M9) suitable for future biological experiments on cell adhesion, infiltration and proliferation, to confirm their effective functioning, have been identified.


Biocompatible Materials , Gelatin , Hydrogels , Regenerative Medicine , Tissue Scaffolds , Gelatin/chemistry , Tissue Scaffolds/chemistry , Regenerative Medicine/methods , Biocompatible Materials/chemistry , Hydrogels/chemistry , Hydrogels/chemical synthesis , Humans , Tissue Engineering/methods , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry
8.
Biomacromolecules ; 25(5): 3011-3017, 2024 May 13.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38689515

Stabilization against the dilution-dependent disassembly of self-assembled nanoparticles is a requirement for in vivo application. Herein, we propose a simple and biocompatible cross-linking reaction for the stabilization of a series of nanoparticles formed by the self-assembly of amphiphilic HA-b-ELP block copolymers, through the alkylation of methionine residues from the ELP block with diglycidyl ether compounds. The core-cross-linked nanoparticles retain their colloidal properties, with a spherical core-shell morphology, while maintaining thermoresponsive behavior. As such, instead of a reversible disassembly when non-cross-linked, a reversible swelling of nanoparticles' core and increase of hydrodynamic diameter are observed with lowering of the temperature.


Cross-Linking Reagents , Nanoparticles , Nanoparticles/chemistry , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Temperature , Polymers/chemistry , Elastin/chemistry , Particle Size
9.
ACS Biomater Sci Eng ; 10(5): 3343-3354, 2024 May 13.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38695560

Moldable tissue-sealant hydrogels were developed herein by combining the yield stress fluidity of a Carbomer and in situ cross-linking of 3-arm PEG-thiol (PEG-SH) and 4-arm PEG-acrylate (PEG-AC). The Carbomer was mixed with each PEG oligomer to form two aqueous precursors: Carbomer/PEG-SH and Carbomer/PEG-AC. The two hydrogel precursors exhibited sufficient yield stress (>100 Pa) to prevent dripping from their placement on the tissue surface. Moreover, these hydrogel precursors exhibited rapid restructuring when the shear strain was repeatedly changed. These rheological properties contribute to the moldability of these hydrogel precursors. After mixing these two precursors, they were converted from yield-stress fluids to chemically cross-linked hydrogels, Carbomer/PEG hydrogel, via thiol-Michael addition. The gelation time was 5.0 and 11.2 min at 37 and 25 °C, respectively. In addition, the Carbomer/PEG hydrogels exhibited higher cellular viability than the pure Carbomer. They also showed stable adhesiveness and burst pressure resistance to various tissues, such as the skin, stomach, colon, and cecum of pigs. The hydrogels showed excellent tissue sealing in a cecum ligation and puncture model in mice and improved the survival rate due to their tissue adhesiveness and biocompatibility. The Carbomer/PEG hydrogel is a potential biocompatible tissue sealant that surgeons can mold. It was revealed that the combination of in situ cross-linkable PEG oligomers and yield stress fluid such as Carbomer is effective for developing the moldable tissue sealant without dripping of its hydrogel precursors.


Hydrogels , Polyethylene Glycols , Sulfhydryl Compounds , Hydrogels/chemistry , Hydrogels/pharmacology , Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry , Animals , Mice , Sulfhydryl Compounds/chemistry , Tissue Adhesives/chemistry , Tissue Adhesives/pharmacology , Swine , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Rheology , Humans , Acrylic Resins
10.
J Colloid Interface Sci ; 668: 678-690, 2024 Aug 15.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38710124

Aerogels, as a unique porous material, are expected to be used as insulation materials to solve the global environmental and energy crisis. Using chitosan, citric acid, pectin and phytic acid as raw materials, an all-biomass-based aerogel with high modulus was prepared by the triple strategy of ionic, physical and chemical cross-linking through directional freezing technique. Based on this three-dimensional network, the aerogel exhibited excellent compressive modulus (24.89 ± 1.76 MPa) over a wide temperature range and thermal insulation properties. In the presence of chitosan, citric acid and phytic acid, the aerogel obtained excellent fire safety (LOI value up to 31.2%) and antibacterial properties (antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli reached 81.98% and 67.43%). In addition, the modified aerogel exhibited excellent hydrophobicity (hydrophobic angle of 146°) and oil-water separation properties. More importantly, the aerogel exhibited a biodegradation rate of up to 40.31% for 35 days due to its all-biomass nature. This work provides a green and sustainable strategy for the production of highly environmentally friendly thermal insulation materials with high strength, flame retardant, antibacterial and hydrophobic properties.


Anti-Bacterial Agents , Chitosan , Citric Acid , Escherichia coli , Gels , Staphylococcus aureus , Escherichia coli/drug effects , Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects , Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Bacterial Agents/chemistry , Gels/chemistry , Chitosan/chemistry , Citric Acid/chemistry , Biomass , Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions , Porosity , Phytic Acid/chemistry , Pectins/chemistry , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Microbial Sensitivity Tests , Surface Properties , Particle Size , Temperature
11.
Anal Chem ; 96(19): 7506-7515, 2024 May 14.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38690851

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurological disorder featuring abnormal protein aggregation in the brain, including the pathological hallmarks of amyloid plaques and hyperphosphorylated tau. Despite extensive research efforts, understanding the molecular intricacies driving AD development remains a formidable challenge. This study focuses on identifying key protein conformational changes associated with the progression of AD. To achieve this, we employed quantitative cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS) to elucidate conformational changes in the protein networks in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). By using isotopically labeled cross-linkers BS3d0 and BS3d4, we reveal a dynamic shift in protein interaction networks during AD progression. Our comprehensive analysis highlights distinct alterations in protein-protein interactions within mild cognitive impairment (MCI) states. This study accentuates the potential of cross-linked peptides as indicators of AD-related conformational changes, including previously unreported site-specific binding between α-1-antitrypsin (A1AT) and complement component 3 (CO3). Furthermore, this work enables detailed structural characterization of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) and reveals modifications within its helical domains, suggesting their involvement in MCI pathogenesis. The quantitative approach provides insights into site-specific interactions and changes in the abundance of cross-linked peptides, offering an improved understanding of the intricate protein-protein interactions underlying AD progression. These findings lay a foundation for the development of potential diagnostic or therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating the negative impact of AD.


Alzheimer Disease , Apolipoproteins E , Mass Spectrometry , Alzheimer Disease/metabolism , Alzheimer Disease/pathology , Alzheimer Disease/diagnosis , Humans , Apolipoproteins E/chemistry , Apolipoproteins E/metabolism , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Protein Conformation , alpha 1-Antitrypsin/chemistry , alpha 1-Antitrypsin/metabolism , Cognitive Dysfunction/metabolism
12.
Chem Commun (Camb) ; 60(42): 5490-5493, 2024 May 21.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38699837

The immobilisation of artificial metalloenzymes (ArMs) holds promise for the implementation of new biocatalytic reactions. We present the synthesis of cross-linked artificial metalloenzyme aggregates (CLArMAs) with excellent recyclability, as an alternative to carrier-based immobilisation strategies. Furthermore, iron-siderophore supramolecular anchoring facilitates redox-triggered cofactor release, enabling CLArMAs to be recharged with alternative cofactors for diverse selectivity.


Oxidation-Reduction , Siderophores , Siderophores/chemistry , Stereoisomerism , Metalloproteins/chemistry , Metalloproteins/metabolism , Catalysis , Biocatalysis , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Iron/chemistry
13.
Mikrochim Acta ; 191(6): 333, 2024 05 16.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38753167

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the urgent need for rapid and reliable strategies for early detection of SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we propose a DNA nanosphere-based crosslinking catalytic hairpin assembly (CCHA) system for the rapid and sensitive SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection. The CCHA system employs two DNA nanospheres functionalized with catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA) hairpins. The presence of target SARS-CoV-2 RNA initiated the crosslinking of DNA nanospheres via CHA process, leading to the amplification of fluorescence signals. As a result, the speed of SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis was enhanced by significantly increasing the local concentration of the reagents in a crosslinked DNA product, leading to a detection limit of 363 fM within 5 min. The robustness of this system has been validated in complex environments, such as fetal bovine serum and saliva. Hence, the proposed CCHA system offers an efficient and simple approach for rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA, holding substantial promise for enhancing COVID-19 diagnosis.


COVID-19 , Limit of Detection , RNA, Viral , SARS-CoV-2 , SARS-CoV-2/genetics , SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification , RNA, Viral/analysis , RNA, Viral/genetics , Humans , COVID-19/diagnosis , COVID-19/virology , Nanospheres/chemistry , DNA/chemistry , Inverted Repeat Sequences , Animals , COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Testing/methods , Cattle , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Saliva/virology
14.
ACS Appl Bio Mater ; 7(5): 3506-3514, 2024 May 20.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38696441

Horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-mediated hydrogelation, caused by the cross-linking of phenolic groups in polymers in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), is an effective route for bioink solidification in 3D bioprinting. Sugar beet pectin (SBP) naturally has cross-linkable phenols through the enzymatic reaction. Therefore, chemical modifications are not required, unlike the various polymers that have been used in the enzymatic cross-linking system. In this study, we report the application of SBP in extrusion-based bioprinting including HRP-mediated bioink solidification. In this system, H2O2 necessary for the solidification of inks is supplied in the gas phase. Cell-laden liver lobule-like constructs could be fabricated using bioinks consisting of 10 U/mL HRP, 4.0 and 6.0 w/v% SBP, and 6.0 × 106 cells/mL human hepatoblastoma (HepG2) cells exposed to air containing 16 ppm of H2O2 concurrently during printing and 10 min postprinting. The HepG2 cells enclosed in the printed constructs maintained their viability, metabolic activity, and hepatic functions from day 1 to day 7 of the culture, which indicates the cytocompatibility of this system. Taken together, this result demonstrates the potential of SBP and HRP cross-linking systems for 3D bioprinting, which can be applied in tissue engineering applications.


Beta vulgaris , Biocompatible Materials , Bioprinting , Horseradish Peroxidase , Materials Testing , Pectins , Printing, Three-Dimensional , Horseradish Peroxidase/metabolism , Horseradish Peroxidase/chemistry , Beta vulgaris/chemistry , Humans , Pectins/chemistry , Hep G2 Cells , Biocompatible Materials/chemistry , Biocompatible Materials/pharmacology , Biocompatible Materials/chemical synthesis , Hydrogen Peroxide/chemistry , Particle Size , Cell Survival/drug effects , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemical synthesis , Tissue Engineering
15.
ACS Appl Bio Mater ; 7(5): 3164-3178, 2024 May 20.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38722774

Microbial biofilm accumulation poses a serious threat to the environment, presents significant challenges to different industries, and exhibits a large impact on public health. Since there has not been a conclusive answer found despite various efforts, the potential green and economical methods are being focused on, particularly the innovative approaches that employ biochemical agents. In the present study, we propose a bio-nanotechnological method using magnetic cross-linked polyphenol oxidase aggregates (PPO m-CLEA) for inhibition of microbial biofilm including multidrug resistant bacteria. Free PPO solution showed only 55-60% biofilm inhibition, whereas m-CLEA showed 70-75% inhibition, as confirmed through microscopic techniques. The carbohydrate and protein contents in biofilm extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) were reduced significantly. The m-CLEA demonstrated reusability up to 5 cycles with consistent efficiency in biofilm inhibition. Computational work was also done where molecular docking of PPO with microbial proteins associated with biofilm formation was conducted, resulting in favorable binding scores and inter-residual interactions. Overall, both in vitro and in silico results suggest that PPO interferes with microbial cell attachment and EPS formation, thereby preventing biofilm colonization.


Anti-Bacterial Agents , Biofilms , Catechol Oxidase , Particle Size , Biofilms/drug effects , Catechol Oxidase/metabolism , Catechol Oxidase/chemistry , Catechol Oxidase/antagonists & inhibitors , Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Bacterial Agents/chemistry , Materials Testing , Biocompatible Materials/chemistry , Biocompatible Materials/pharmacology , Microbial Sensitivity Tests , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Cross-Linking Reagents/pharmacology , Molecular Docking Simulation , Escherichia coli/drug effects
16.
Carbohydr Polym ; 337: 122144, 2024 Aug 01.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38710569

In vivo, cells interact with the extracellular matrix (ECM), which provides a multitude of biophysical and biochemical signals that modulate cellular behavior. Inspired by this, we explored a new methodology to develop a more physiomimetic polysaccharide-based matrix for 3D cell culture. Maleimide-modified alginate (AlgM) derivatives were successfully synthesized using DMTMM to activate carboxylic groups. Thiol-terminated cell-adhesion peptides were tethered to the hydrogel network to promote integrin binding. Rapid and efficient in situ hydrogel formation was promoted by thiol-Michael addition "click" chemistry via maleimide reaction with thiol-flanked protease-sensitive peptides. Alginate derivatives were further ionically crosslinked by divalent ions present in the medium, which led to greater stability and allowed longer cell culture periods. By tailoring alginate's biofunctionality we improved cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, providing an ECM-like 3D microenvironment. We were able to systematically and independently vary biochemical and biophysical parameters to elicit specific cell responses, creating custom-made 3D matrices. DMTMM-mediated maleimide incorporation is a promising approach to synthesizing AlgM derivatives that can be leveraged to produce ECM-like matrices for a broad range of applications, from in vitro tissue modeling to tissue regeneration.


Alginates , Click Chemistry , Extracellular Matrix , Hydrogels , Maleimides , Sulfhydryl Compounds , Maleimides/chemistry , Alginates/chemistry , Sulfhydryl Compounds/chemistry , Hydrogels/chemistry , Hydrogels/chemical synthesis , Extracellular Matrix/metabolism , Extracellular Matrix/chemistry , Humans , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Cell Adhesion/drug effects , Animals
17.
J Am Chem Soc ; 146(19): 13617-13628, 2024 May 15.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38695163

Here, we present a cross-linking approach to covalently functionalize and stabilize DNA origami structures in a one-pot reaction. Our strategy involves adding nucleotide sequences to adjacent staple strands, so that, upon assembly of the origami structure, the extensions form short hairpin duplexes targetable by psoralen-labeled triplex-forming oligonucleotides bearing other functional groups (pso-TFOs). Subsequent irradiation with UVA light generates psoralen adducts with one or both hairpin staples leading to site-specific attachment of the pso-TFO (and attached group) to the origami with ca. 80% efficiency. Bis-adduct formation between strands in proximal hairpins further tethers the TFO to the structure and generates "superstaples" that improve the structural integrity of the functionalized complex. We show that directing cross-linking to regions outside of the origami core dramatically reduces sensitivity of the structures to thermal denaturation and disassembly by T7 RNA polymerase. We also show that the underlying duplex regions of the origami core are digested by DNase I and thus remain accessible to read-out by DNA-binding proteins. Our strategy is scalable and cost-effective, as it works with existing DNA origami structures, does not require scaffold redesign, and can be achieved with just one psoralen-modified oligonucleotide.


Cross-Linking Reagents , DNA , Nucleic Acid Conformation , Ultraviolet Rays , DNA/chemistry , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Photochemical Processes , Ficusin/chemistry
18.
Anal Chem ; 96(19): 7373-7379, 2024 May 14.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38696819

Cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS) has evolved into a pivotal technique for probing protein interactions. This study describes the implementation of Parallel Accumulation-Serial Fragmentation (PASEF) on timsTOF instruments, enhancing the detection and analysis of protein interactions by XL-MS. Addressing the challenges in XL-MS, such as the interpretation of complex spectra, low abundant cross-linked peptides, and a data acquisition bias, our current study integrates a peptide-centric approach for the analysis of XL-MS data and presents the foundation for integrating data-independent acquisition (DIA) in XL-MS with a vendor-neutral and open-source platform. A novel workflow is described for processing data-dependent acquisition (DDA) of PASEF-derived information. For this, software by Bruker Daltonics is used, enabling the conversion of these data into a format that is compatible with MeroX and Skyline software tools. Our approach significantly improves the identification of cross-linked products from complex mixtures, allowing the XL-MS community to overcome current analytical limitations.


Cross-Linking Reagents , Mass Spectrometry , Software , Workflow , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Peptides/chemistry , Peptides/analysis , Humans
19.
Phys Rev E ; 109(4): L042401, 2024 Apr.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38755828

The network structure of densely packed chromatin within the nucleus of eukaryotic cells acts in concert with nonequilibrium processes. Using statistical physics simulations, we explore the control provided by transient crosslinking of the chromatin network by structural-maintenance-of-chromosome (SMC) proteins over (i) the physical properties of the chromatin network and (ii) condensate formation of embedded molecular species. We find that the density and lifetime of transient SMC crosslinks regulate structural relaxation modes and tune the sol-vs-gel state of the chromatin network, which imparts control over the kinetic pathway to condensate formation. Specifically, lower density, shorter-lived crosslinks induce sollike networks and a droplet-fusion pathway, whereas higher density, longer-lived crosslinks induce gellike networks and an Ostwald-ripening pathway.


Chromatin , Chromatin/metabolism , Kinetics , Biomolecular Condensates/metabolism , Models, Molecular , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry
20.
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A ; 121(19): e2317703121, 2024 May 07.
Article En | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38687792

Fluorescence labeling of chemically fixed specimens, especially immunolabeling, plays a vital role in super-resolution imaging as it offers a convenient way to visualize cellular structures like mitochondria or the distribution of biomolecules with high detail. Despite the development of various distinct probes that enable super-resolved stimulated emission depletion (STED) imaging of mitochondria in live cells, most of these membrane-potential-dependent fluorophores cannot be retained well in mitochondria after chemical fixation. This lack of suitable mitochondrial probes has limited STED imaging of mitochondria to live cell samples. In this study, we introduce a mitochondria-specific probe, PK Mito Orange FX (PKMO FX), which features a fixation-driven cross-linking motif and accumulates in the mitochondrial inner membrane. It exhibits high fluorescence retention after chemical fixation and efficient depletion at 775 nm, enabling nanoscopic imaging both before and after aldehyde fixation. We demonstrate the compatibility of this probe with conventional immunolabeling and other strategies commonly used for fluorescence labeling of fixed samples. Moreover, we show that PKMO FX facilitates correlative super-resolution light and electron microscopy, enabling the correlation of multicolor fluorescence images and transmission EM images via the characteristic mitochondrial pattern. Our probe further expands the mitochondrial toolkit for multimodal microscopy at nanometer resolutions.


Aldehydes , Fluorescent Dyes , Microscopy, Fluorescence , Mitochondria , Mitochondria/metabolism , Humans , Fluorescent Dyes/chemistry , Aldehydes/metabolism , Aldehydes/chemistry , Microscopy, Fluorescence/methods , HeLa Cells , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Animals , Mitochondrial Membranes/metabolism
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